In February, the Athletics signed Ramirez to a minor-league deal, the terms being that he would make no more than $500,000 for the season. When his 50-game suspension for allegedly using performance-enhancing drugs ran out on May 30, he began playing for Triple-A Sacramento.

However, Ramirez still hadn't been placed on the Athletics by Friday, and that may have had something to do with his decision to request a release.

Ramirez's career has been on a downward spiral since his days with the Boston Red Sox. Last year, he appeared in just five games for the Tampa Bay Rays, going 1-for-17 on the year. Multiple violations of MLB's performance-enhancing drug policy, combined with his age and injuries, have made the former All-Star almost unrecognizable.

At 40 years of age, there's no telling what lies ahead for Ramirez, whether it's retirement or seeking an opportunity with another club. You'd have to think it would be hard for him to get a job with another team at this point.

It may prove to be a disappointing end to the 12-time All-Star's career, but an ending many believe he wrote when he was suspended for using PEDs. This is a player who has hit .312 for his career with 555 home runs. He was an All-Star for 11 straight years and helped the Red Sox capture two championships in 2004 and 2007. He was named World Series MVP in 2004.

Yet despite all of Ramirez's accomplishments on the field, his curious request for a release on Friday still brings up a saying that has now turned sour: "Just Manny being Manny."